Piney pines no more

Feb 20, 2025

When Denise Richards showed a picture of 13-year-old Piney to her grandkids, they said, “we have to save him and give him his best life!” Those words changed everything.

Before he came to PAWS, 13-year-old Piney had been living on someone's porch for a few weeks. While extremely friendly, he was in rough shape. Piney had developed a severe respiratory infection—he was dehydrated, wheezing, and his eyes were swollen.  

Once safe at our Medical Center, Piney received a full exam, IV fluids, and medications to help him feel better. It took a few weeks, but with the help of our dedicated medical team and a loving foster home, Piney made a full recovery.  

The next step was adoption, which can be difficult for a kitty who’s already 13 years old. Thankfully, Denise Richards and her grandkids saw everything Piney had to offer.  

“I lost my senior cat last summer. I wanted to adopt another senior or long-term cat or dog. I had been looking for months then, one day, I saw Piney's photo online. I showed my grandkids, and they said, ‘We have to save him and give him his best life,’” shares Denise.  

With those words, Denise knew Piney was meant to be a part of her family, which includes five happy housecats and a feral colony.  

“We drove one and half hours—mostly traffic—to pick up our boy!” says Denise. But the trip was well worth it because Piney adjusted to his new home immediately. 

Denise went on to say, “He found his spot on the tree house—he loves the hammock due to his arthritis. The other kitties acclimated within a week, and they now play and eat together.” 

While Piney is a senior cat, he’s happy as a kitten to be in his new home.  

“Piney loves his mouse toys! He jumps high, too. He loves to sleep on my granddaughter’s pillow pets. He is such a cuddle bug, and I really enjoy that. I love his unique meow. I love his adorable face and his head bumps and when he makes biscuits on his soft bed, aka my bed,” says Denise.   

Of course, Piney has his moments of mischief as well. He likes to knock over his favorite treats in the middle of the night. But who could be mad at this guy?  

“Piney has been a joy to all of us. Thank you all for your kindness and the joyful experience I have had!” says Denise.